Bangladesh elections 2026: Will hand over power to elected government fast, says Yunus

Yunus pledges quick power transfer to elected government, urging citizens to support the impactful 'July Charter' referendum.

The February 12 election is not just a routine political event but a moment when the people of Bangladesh will determine the course of their collective destiny, Chief Adviser of the interim government Muhammad Yunus said on Tuesday (February 10, 2026).

In a nationally televised address that came hours after the political campaign ended on Tuesday (February 10, 2026), Mr. Yunus called for citizens to vote in favour of the popular referendum on the ‘July Charter’ that will bring substantial changes to the Constitution. Polling will be ‘inclusive’ as 51 political parties will contest for power, he said, adding that the interim government will “fast” hand over power to the elected government.

“The task of the interim government will end with the election of a new government. We will return to our respective professions after handing over power with joy and pride to the newly elected government,” said Mr. Yunus.

He said the impact of the referendum on adopting the principles of the July Charter will influence a generation and called upon voters to come out and vote in favour of the Charter.

“A vote for the referendum is not just a seal on paper. It will determine the direction of education, employment and justice system in the coming days,” said Mr. Yunus. The proposed changes will impose limits on the powers of the Prime Minister, and give certain powers to the President, who is currently a titular figure in the state structure of Bangladesh. The interim government has announced a four days holiday for the election.

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